# Iran blocks SIM cards to silence dissent

> Iran blocks SIM cards to silence dissent.
- Title: Iran blocks SIM cards to silence dissent · Dw | Shortify
- Summary: Iran blocks SIM cards to silence dissent. iran, sim cards, digital access · reported by Dw.
- Keywords: iran, sim cards, digital access, political dissent, iranian government, internet shutdown, protests, social media, cell phone, banking services, government services, digital identity
- Source: Dw — https://dw.com/en/iran-accused-of-blocking-sim-cards-digital-access-to-silence-dissent/a-79522440?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: iran, sim cards, digital access, political dissent, iranian government, internet shutdown, protests, social media, cell phone, banking services, government services, digital identity
## Iran blocks SIM cards
Iran blocks SIM cards to silence dissent online and offline after protests began in late December 2025.
## SIM cards block digital life
In Iran, cell phone numbers are a key tool for digital identity verification and access to banking, judicial, administrative and insurance services.
## Sina's SIM blocked
Sina, a 25-year-old university student, said his SIM card was disconnected after he tried to book a taxi and was interrogated for six hours.
## Sina's pledge required
Sina said he had to sign a pledge expressing remorse for activist activities and publish posts supporting the Islamic Republic to prove his brotherhood with the system.
## Sorour's SIM blocked
Sorour, a 41-year-old translator in Tehran, said her SIM card was disconnected after she was interrogated about Instagram and X activities critical of authorities.
## Mina's SIM blocked
Mina, a 63-year-old in Isfahan, said her SIM card and national ID were blocked after she refused to comply with an IO-IRGC summons.
## Zia Nabavi's SIM blocked
Zia Nabavi, a former political prisoner, said his SIM card was disconnected while he needed access to banking text messages at a doctor's office.
## Reyhaneh Saeedi's SIM blocked
Reyhaneh Saeedi, a physician and activist, said her SIM card was blocked for months, preventing her from practicing medicine and renewing licenses.
## Iran's digital pressure
Iran uses SIM card disconnections as part of a broader strategy to pressure opponents, critics, journalists and activists over the past four decades.
## Key takeaway

Iran blocks SIM cards to silence dissent online and offline after protests began in late December 2025.